I acquired my RCBS turret in 2011, my first press and have since loaded almost 75,000 rounds on it. I really like this press, especially after I bought the Inline Fabrication mount and ergonomic handle. The handle made it much easier to seat stubborn primers. I have 4 turret heads with the dies installed in 9mm, .380, .38/.357 and .40 S&W. I used to shoot about 1,000 rounds a month before the shortage, and was able to keep up easily with this press. I could load 100 rounds of 9mm in about 35 minutes, taking my time. That's for 5 operations in 4 stations: resize/decap, prime, charge/flare, bullet seat, and crimp. The only trouble I had was the primer punch wasn't quite centered in the shell holder. I glued in a strip of credit card in the ram cutout, and it's perfect now. Customer support is excellent too. I"m sure the company would have sent me a new ram, but I didn't see the need for that.
Hey! I am new to reloading and I have watched many of your videos and they have helped me a lot. I'm thinking about which turret press would have suited me best and which gives as good results as possible. I saw your video when you compared 14 different presses where you did go in depth about them. Can you make a similar video with turret presses? That would be very interesting. Keep up the good work 👏
I have been using an RCBS Turret press for over 15 years and it has served me well. It is the only press that I own. I like that it is for all intents and purposes a single stage press that I do not have to change the die set. Just set it and forget it. I never setup the primer tube assembly. I hand prime all of my brass. I do not like the primer catcher, but I found online someone who created a 3-D printed primer catcher that has a plastic tube that attaches to it. I purchased a longer tube and I set a milk jug on the floor, run the tube into jug and go to town resizing/depriming. When I am done I just screw the lid back on and set it aside for the next batch. I currently have a 3 die 9mm die set, a .223 Rem RCBS FL sizer/deprimer die, and a Forster Ultramicromiter seater die. That uses up 5 of the 6 holes. I recently added a Hornady bullet puller in the last hole.
Recently went to a turret press after over thirty years of faithful service from my RCBS Rock Chucker II single stage press kit, I bought from Cabelas; for less than $200 bucks, as I recall. Back when handloading was more of a hobby, than an act of desperation. 😅 However, for this next leg of my handloading journey, I went with the Lyman eight station job. It was less costly than the RCBS, and just seemed to be a bit tighter and heftier. The two extra stations also helped seal the deal for me. Going to load mostly handgun cartridges with it, and use my Old Faithful for rifle cartridges. I seldom load more than fifty at a time, and with handgun ammo rarely more than a hundred at once. I handload for all the rifles and handguns in my collection. At 70+ years, this set up will more than meet my handloading needs the rest of the way into the final quarter.
I have had one for about 7 years, the ram was tight but it quickly broke in. I have only loaded 40 S&W and 45 ACP on this press as I load 9mm on a Dillon Square Deal B and all others on a Rock Chucker or Forster Coax. I enjoy using the press and would like to get a couple more turrets and use it more(change turrets as intended not dies). The idea of having three rifle sets or two pistol sets per turret is appealing. It should be noted that the back support not only houses the ball for indexing detents, but also rigidly prevents the upward movement of turret during ram upstroke. The nessacary play in the turret bothered me a little until I realized how rigid the design was with ram at top of stroke.
Thanks to these videos I have the RCBS Summit waiting at home NIB and already I want this model to get the work flow I’m picturing will work for me along with the ChargeMaster Supreme. Going to be a fun winter project setting it all up and shooting the new rifles with different loads. About to order bullets and powder now that I have some reload manuals.
I've had one for some number off years, it's better than many other turret presses I have tried, I use it mostly for load development when I just need to load a few dozen rounds or so and don't want to set-up the dillon or a bigger progressive. It's a good press and typical of RCBS' quality. I think the indexing could be a bit smoother, the on-press priming system is ok, but I usually just take it off and use a bench primer instead. You hit on the best part about this press, the opening... it's got good stroke, and easy access to get your fingers in and out of there without getting pinched or smashed. The one issue I've had, the spring that holds the shell-holder in place keeps getting out of position and prevents me from putting a shell holder in, without having to jimmy it over with a small screwdriver.
I use the RCBS Turret press exclusively for many calibers. I have six turrets set up with two calibers and they are simple to change over and set up for each caliber. Just change, check and reload. I do all my crimping with a LEE crimping die on a separate RCBS RockChucker press. Note you cannot use the turning handle as Gavin says to change the turrets if they are full of dies, you need a deep socket and handle because the dies are in the way.
Maybe you might know this, why use a turret press instead of a progressive press? I own and use several progressive and single stage presses, but I’ve never given much thought to a turret press. There seems to be a big comeback, I’m honestly asking, what am I missing?
@@RobinP556 Its just a little quicker and handier "single stage" loading. Leaving a caliber or two in a turret and swapping is appealing to some. I like this all dies mounted and useable approach.
@@cw2a there is a tiny bit of play in the head, but its made that it stops exactly the same every time. very accurate ammo can be made with it. have no worries. i hate the priming system of this press, but it makes very accurate ammo.
I had to decide between this and the Lyman American 8 about 2 years ago . Found a fantastic price on the Lyman . I have used RCBS for about 30 years and am thrilled with the customer service . Well something went wrong with the Lyman > I learned RCBS treats me better . I think the priming location on the RCBS better like the 8 stations on the Lyman . Wish I had the RCBS for a comparison I put a Brass Smith powder drop on the American 8 still have the RCBS on the bench for the rock chucker .
This is the thing right here, using RCBS, you get a solid customer experience that seems to pass from generation to generation. I imagine its similar with Hornady as well, the Lyman looks sexy thought but at the moment, I've gone green in my loading (for the environment /s) :P
Still trying to decide which way to go. I like the Forester and RCBS Summit single stage also. Have not reloaded in more than 20 years and that was on someone else’s press so now I get to decide what I want. Because I have some Autism traits I need to be able to set up a repeatable system so I don’t lose track of where I am and, it needs to be clumsy proof. That seems to lead towards a turret press since I am not looking at progressive press’s now. Recent subscriber
I do use one for everything I don't use the Dillon 750XL for. It's a fine press but it does have it's quirks. The Spacing on the turret head can so tight that you can't lock the dies in place with the set screw because you can't access it. Also the whole priming assembly can be quite sketchy.
I use a deep well socket on a swivel drive handle to work the turret bolt. Never saw the logic in using the supplied RCBS tool. Can’t access the bolt at all when the head is filled with dies.
Great review. Now you've wet my whistle. Gavin, I purchased a new RCBS Rock Chucker Kit back when the press had a long plastic bicycle handle lever (yr. unknown) at the Oroville, California store. It’s been in storage in the OEM boxes just after I reloaded 20, 38 special reloads, 20, 44 magnum reloads. My question is can I add a Turret to the top of my press and what other parts are needed to complete the installation if possible? I’m thinking of eventually getting everything needed to reload 223, .308, 30.06 and 500 S&W. Thanks
It looks good, I havent seen one and didnt even know it was out. I sold my Lee classic cast turret (I found there was too much play in the aluminum turret wheel) and bought the Lyman American 8 turret when it came out after comparing it to the Redding Turret. While this RCBS looks good it doesnt seem ( at least from the vid) as robust as the Lyman or Redding and at the price I saw online line of over $300 - close to $350 I'd have to see it in person to see if I think its a good deal. It seems a step down from the Lyman or Redding imo
I have the turret 8 just got it and for the money its the way to go if your press is going to stay in one spot. If you need a press on the go on a portable stand the RCBS turret press is smaller and lighter lol it's nice to have options 😁
Hello Reloader, You saw my video on what I did to my Lyman. I have had a eye on this RCBS not as impressed seeing Gavin use it. Im really liking the Lyman now. Super solid and positive.
@@cw2a I think you should send a link to your vid and send it to Lyman and ask if its normal or defective - they might offer you a new press even if you did fix yours. I've checked mine several times after your vid seeing if there is any play at all and my press just doesnt have any play at all at the wheel -
I have the Lyman all American 8, the priming set up on that press is a disaster. It gets in the way and locks up regularly. I ditched it for a bench primer from rcbs This rcbs priming set up looks very similar but with it off to the side it leaves full access to the ram and shell, way better executed.
@@rhodes6858 yep, but the issues kept happening. Damaged primers,Iocked up press because spent primers kept getting stuck inbetween the exit hole on the ram and the body, not to mention the fact that it was always in the way too. I do all my decaping on a Lee app, and bench prime everything now, even with my Dillon. I haven't had a single damage/flipped primer since changing to that set-up.
Same, I wonder about the turret getting play after a while and it flexing a bit while sizing cases. That would be the key part of the process I think. Would be nice to have a de-capping die and a mandrel die setup and ready to use. Then 2 sets of rifle dies. Don't care about the priming setup.
Hey Gavin I really enjoy the videos. You and your guest have taught me a lot. I was wondering with a powder drop on a turret press. How much does it affect the amount of powder that is dropped with it constantly moving?
Saw no one replied to this question. The most important way to answer this is check powder weights after doing a cycle. Powder charge can vary if you just cycle just the powder station. This is a good rule of thumb on any press, especially progressive, but turret would be the same thought process. When I am loading rifle cases on a stand alone powder measured like my RCBS uniflow measured, I work the handle with the same motion each time, consistent, always work it in a consistent manner. Hope this may help.
I bought the Lyman turret press and it’s good but the primer system sucks, would have bought the RCBS but 6 station is not enough. Will get the RCBS primer setup and eliminate the Lyman setup. Happy with the press .
What a lot of flex with inline fabrications stand I’m not 100% sure if it was the stand of the bench but boy you made loading 223 look really hard work
I just bought an old ponsness and Warren hydromatic pw600. Super cool old shotgun press. You should try and dig up some really retro presses and tools to show how far this industry has come but also stayed the same
I ditched the priming tool for a hand primer. I found the cup gets jammed too much inside the shell holders and it didn't feel very smooth or efficient for me. Personal preference. I use mine for 300 blackout and 223, and my only other complaint really is that the hole under the turret isn't big enough for some of the dies to go through, including any dies with depriming pins sticking out and any precision dies like forester micrometer dies. I found using a single stage press was better for my precision cartridges just because I didn't have to go through the hassle of screwing out the dies any time I wanted to use certain stations, but this press is good for bulk work
Mine sucks. Spent primers constantly get into the ram and jam it up. The primer system didn’t seat primers well. I ended up getting a bench primer and a separate press just to work around that.
Press works well. But the primer slide is sticky. Had to buff the primer tray slide channel quite a bit to make it smooth out. Still not the best or smoothest way to prime. Ended up going to off press priming using RCBS Auto prime #9460.
@@oscarbear7498 Not necessarily. It has a similar primer slide. I like my turret press. The Rebel was not out yet but it would not have mattered. I wanted a multi station turret. That's why I got this turret (and it was priced great at the time). Also, the auto prime works well. I'm now sold on off press priming from now on. If I ever decide to buy a progressive in the future, I may change my mind. Who knows?????
Watching close to see deflection sizing. That mount flex would ruin it for me!!! I thought those mounts was more solid then that!!! Looks like a little deflection seating bullets...
Hey Gavin, good video. I don’t want to spend $1200+ on the Area 419 turret press but I do want the set it and forget it you get from a turret, you’ve done reviews on both RCBS and Redding T7, which did get the most precise ammo from? I currently still use my Rock Chucker Supreme and it does great but would like to set up a more user friendly turret press. Thanks for all your videos, learned a lot.
Never used a low end turret press that was consistent in both shoulder bumping and bullet seating. If they have tight tolerances they still flex. Great loading for hunting but not so much for match. My turret presses are only used for decapping and neck mandrels now none of which requires precision.
@@rvrski1 that makes sense, im loading a 300 wby coal 3.7". The press I'm using is an older rcbs single stage. Does the rcbs rebel have more room? The one I'm using currently is a buddy's, I think it's the same dimensions of the rock chucker just not cast iron.
@@DAMMDAUGHTERS The Rebel is cast iron, just heavier build with a wider base and a taller opening, from memory it’s 20% heavier construction than the Rock Chucker from memory. I have Turrets, just don’t use them for precision or consistency.
I have an RCBS Turret press… I use it for rifle and it works great. My only complaint is that I think the priming system on it is absolutely awful… I don’t like priming on the press anyway, but I think the priming system on the lee turret press is superior.
I always wanted a turret press then I heard about the issues with adding a powder measure on a turret. I have heard it's not good to add a measure to a turret. I ended up just getting another single stage Rebel. Some day I'll get a Pro-Chucker 7.
Turret shootout when? Should be a lot more manageable in scope than the single stage and progressive shootouts: Lee Classic, Lyman AA8, RCBS Turret (reviewed here), Redding T-7; …?
Hey Gavin- noticed you have a track system on your bench- how are you afixing the stand to that? I was originally thinking inserts into the top of my bench but I wasn't sure that would be "beefy" enough. A pic would be great! Thanks!
I have used a turret press my entire life. So I like the idea. Enjoyed seeing the RCBS. Mine is a Hollywood reloading press that I love. It’s a little more sold then the RCBS. It also can load 50 caliber. Have you seen a Hollywood?
" A little more solid than the RCBS "....LOLOLOL!!! It's like comparing my F-150 to a a D-11 Caterpillar! You are very modest. I have "press envy" now!😄
Gavin, it almost looked painful for you to do this review.. the new shop must be kicking your butt. Worn a little thin? Iv never mist a video of yours and I love your content
For me, the verdict is still out on the RCBS Turrer press. I can't help but comepare it to my Redding T7 and my 3 and 4 hole Lees. I prefer the large Allen head turret bolt on the T7. I leave a long T handle in it all the time. It's never in the way. If all the holes are filled on the RCBS, it requires a socket w/extension. Another thing, decapping pins will run into the press frame on the RCBS, preventing complete rotation of the turret. The rest is just details. I'll spare you.
Yes. A turret is by far the best option for a single press. The best compromise for speed and simplicity. If you can spare a little more budget, the Redding T7 is a more “lifetime” piece of equipment, but RCBS makes good stuff as well
It looks like it's just a cheaper version of the T-7, that being said I do like the primer on this model vs the T-7. As I'm asked about presses from time to time, my question to you is would you recommend this press over the T-7 if money wasn't a factor? And also with the available upgrades on the T-7 from Creedmoor Sports?
The T7 is a much more solid and proven press. There are records of T7s after loading 1,000,000 rounds and still being within manufacturer spec for brand new machines. As far as the creedmoor parts, there is nothing for me that is a real upgrade. I prefer not to have a threaded handle, so it can be moved. The plastic shims reduce sizing repeatability. And I mark my turret head with a Position 1 so dies go back in the same hole every time. The head doesn’t change dimension, magically. The only benefit would be corrosion resistance, but Imperial wax takes care of that too.
Deflection? Man when I come to you for where things land I like the nuts and bolts not just the how to use it! Anyone can read the manual. how much deflection do you get compared to Redding, or zero?
Looks like the de-capping pin the way it was adjusted might hit if you swung the turret all the way around? Did it have to be adjusted that long because of the stroke travel to de-prime?
I can confirm that the decapping pin will hit the frame. I have this press and I love it but I have accidentally broken 2 decapping pins this way. You really don’t need to turn it that far but yes it will hit if you try to turn the turret all the way around
Anyone have any tips on someone dipping their toes into this? Im obsessed with 357, have a lever gun in it, planning to get a couple revolvers in it, and on top of that probably end up loading some 30-30/45-70. But, after all of this, im stuck between which type of press. Really the more I could shoot the better, but is it worth to just get straight into a progressive? Or should I take the time to learn things on a single stage/turret? I know most of what I find online comes down to "What I need", but thats kinda the problem. Do I expect to shoot 3000 rounds in a week? Not really, but having to take all day to load a nice little cache of rounds might not be preferable either. Without counting in money, which do you guys think is more useful? Single stage? Or straight to progressive?
I would recommend a Lee Classic four hole turret press. Good on-press priming and it works great with the Lee Auto Drum powder measure. You can disable the auto indexing, which I add best for a beginner or someone that likes total control. Priced right too! I’ve loaded thousands of 357/38 on it.
Would this be a good press for a first press so you can load higher volume 9mm/223-5.56/45acp? And still load 44mag/357mag-38spl/ and rifles like 35rem? Or is the Redding, Lyman or other presses better?
Go redding t8 or better (zero press) and if you want high volume go dillion 750 or hornady ap or the mark 7 apex 10.. skip the bs and go straight for the good stuff. Trust me, I got almost as many presses as gavin does. Lol..
@@luckyshotammunitiongunsllc2369 I don't think Id ever save money that way but thanks for the advice! The Dillon 550 is a little pricey not sure what else the 750 has but I think that's one step away from running it's self. (which would be nice but Ill probably not shoot that much) Maybe single stage and I'll just have to grin and bear it?
Its pricy indeed, but u get what you pay for. i like the hornady lock and load classic, I enjoyed the redding t7, my lyman All American 8 is now my brothers (its shit). I love my zero press And all the progressive presses though expensive will save you alot of time. The only ones looking at in my opinion are hornady ap dillion 750 and apex 10. Enjoy brother and happy hunting
I just picked one of these up for my first foray into reloading 6.5CM. I noticed mine has a decent gap between the turret and the support arm in the rear which allows the turret to deflect like 3 to 5 degrees when the ram is all the way up during resizing. Is there a way to remove that slop?
Here’s what I don’t get, why buy a turret press over a progressive press? I’m not slamming turret presses, in almost 40 years of reloading I’ve never used one, but I do own and use several progressive presses. What am I missing?
Simplicity. I have a Dillon 550 and a Redding T7, and there are quite often times where I just want to try something different with a load, or make a few rounds, etc. and it’s just less hassle on the turret press. As soon as the volume cranks up, I’m on the Dillon. Precision is just as good and it’s fast. But changing over the primer system, messing with charge weights, tuning seating depth, etc. just takes longer to adjust on the Dillon. The Dillon was my first press, and I believe the 550 is the best single machine for someone loading volume of both rifle and pistol, but if space and budget allows, add a turret to your bench.
This is off topic but when is the progressive press shootout video coming out??? It seems like I remember a video several months ago saying yall finally got the last press yall was waiting on to do the video...
I’ll keep my Redding T7… I grew up loading on RCBS equipment with my dad, but I can’t support them anymore, as so much of their stuff is made China now… that said, I’ll keep all my American made RCBS stuff that I’ve had for years, but I won’t be buy anything else from them…
@@The2ndProtectsTheRest Be great if they labelled it on their website (all manufactures) but I expect that’s not in their commercial interests. I’m with you, I don’t buy Chinese at all.
@@scottperson9487I stocked up on everything thing but small pistol. I’m loading 9mm with small pistol magnum. Cci 550’s. Seems like no prob. I would gladly buy a couple of bricks of regulars though. I have lifetime supply of everything else. Just didn’t start shooting 9mm until it was already a problem to get them. Was always a 45 acp and 357 magnum guy before. At least as far as handguns go.
@@basketofdeplorables4253 Most likely you and I can say through experience that we lived through enough ammo shortages to know that when the shelves are full and prices are good is the time to stock up. I have plenty of everything including factory ammo to last a very long time too. You are correct on using Magnum for non-Magnum loads.
My experience with this press was very poor. Ram wasn’t even machined properly to accept a shell holder. I wouldn’t recommend this press to anyone. There are far better options available.
Could not agree more.. a bit pricey but when you add up all the other presses I purchase to get the results I'm getting with the zero press i could have purchase 2 zeros instead
I'm just not a fan of any priming system that stacks the primers on top of each other and so needs an "explosion shield." For rifle loads I much prefer priming with my Lee Bench Primer. The triangle tray design, as with many of their designs, requires some learning and patience and fiddling, but it really works and is a much safer way to go in my opinion.
please do a turret press shoot like you did for the single stage presses.
I acquired my RCBS turret in 2011, my first press and have since loaded almost 75,000 rounds on it. I really like this press, especially after I bought the Inline Fabrication mount and ergonomic handle. The handle made it much easier to seat stubborn primers. I have 4 turret heads with the dies installed in 9mm, .380, .38/.357 and .40 S&W. I used to shoot about 1,000 rounds a month before the shortage, and was able to keep up easily with this press. I could load 100 rounds of 9mm in about 35 minutes, taking my time. That's for 5 operations in 4 stations: resize/decap, prime, charge/flare, bullet seat, and crimp.
The only trouble I had was the primer punch wasn't quite centered in the shell holder. I glued in a strip of credit card in the ram cutout, and it's perfect now. Customer support is excellent too. I"m sure the company would have sent me a new ram, but I didn't see the need for that.
Hey! I am new to reloading and I have watched many of your videos and they have helped me a lot. I'm thinking about which turret press would have suited me best and which gives as good results as possible. I saw your video when you compared 14 different presses where you did go in depth about them. Can you make a similar video with turret presses? That would be very interesting. Keep up the good work 👏
I have been using an RCBS Turret press for over 15 years and it has served me well. It is the only press that I own. I like that it is for all intents and purposes a single stage press that I do not have to change the die set. Just set it and forget it. I never setup the primer tube assembly. I hand prime all of my brass. I do not like the primer catcher, but I found online someone who created a 3-D printed primer catcher that has a plastic tube that attaches to it. I purchased a longer tube and I set a milk jug on the floor, run the tube into jug and go to town resizing/depriming. When I am done I just screw the lid back on and set it aside for the next batch. I currently have a 3 die 9mm die set, a .223 Rem RCBS FL sizer/deprimer die, and a Forster Ultramicromiter seater die. That uses up 5 of the 6 holes. I recently added a Hornady bullet puller in the last hole.
Excellent set up reloader
Recently went to a turret press after over thirty years of faithful service from my RCBS Rock Chucker II single stage press kit, I bought from Cabelas; for less than $200 bucks, as I recall. Back when handloading was more of a hobby, than an act of desperation. 😅
However, for this next leg of my handloading journey, I went with the Lyman eight station job. It was less costly than the RCBS, and just seemed to be a bit tighter and heftier. The two extra stations also helped seal the deal for me.
Going to load mostly handgun cartridges with it, and use my Old Faithful for rifle cartridges. I seldom load more than fifty at a time, and with handgun ammo rarely more than a hundred at once.
I handload for all the rifles and handguns in my collection. At 70+ years, this set up will more than meet my handloading needs the rest of the way into the final quarter.
Got mine in 2018 it has one of smoothest rams great press its RCBS glad you got to test drive it. 👍👍👍 I load 44mag 3006 and 357 mag on this press.
Try the zero press
@@luckyshotammunitiongunsllc2369 that's big money lol...
Worth every pennies.
I have had one for about 7 years, the ram was tight but it quickly broke in. I have only loaded 40 S&W and 45 ACP on this press as I load 9mm on a Dillon Square Deal B and all others on a Rock Chucker or Forster Coax. I enjoy using the press and would like to get a couple more turrets and use it more(change turrets as intended not dies). The idea of having three rifle sets or two pistol sets per turret is appealing. It should be noted that the back support not only houses the ball for indexing detents, but also rigidly prevents the upward movement of turret during ram upstroke. The nessacary play in the turret bothered me a little until I realized how rigid the design was with ram at top of stroke.
Man. I need to find some more disposable income.
@@revivepharmer8095 take your regular kind of income and dispose of it on reloading gear! LOL
Wish you had went into more detail on results of your reloads. Like to know how constant the press is
Thanks to these videos I have the RCBS Summit waiting at home NIB and already I want this model to get the work flow I’m picturing will work for me along with the ChargeMaster Supreme. Going to be a fun winter project setting it all up and shooting the new rifles with different loads. About to order bullets and powder now that I have some reload manuals.
Thanks for the update brother.
I wish you would have tested and/or commented on case/bullet runout. I plan on buying a turret press.
I've had one for some number off years, it's better than many other turret presses I have tried, I use it mostly for load development when I just need to load a few dozen rounds or so and don't want to set-up the dillon or a bigger progressive. It's a good press and typical of RCBS' quality. I think the indexing could be a bit smoother, the on-press priming system is ok, but I usually just take it off and use a bench primer instead. You hit on the best part about this press, the opening... it's got good stroke, and easy access to get your fingers in and out of there without getting pinched or smashed. The one issue I've had, the spring that holds the shell-holder in place keeps getting out of position and prevents me from putting a shell holder in, without having to jimmy it over with a small screwdriver.
@@oscarbear7498 my rcbs bench primer is in storage somewhere, so I've been slumming it with the Lee bench primer. Both are really solid
I use the RCBS Turret press exclusively for many calibers. I have six turrets set up with two calibers and they are simple to change over and set up for each caliber. Just change, check and reload. I do all my crimping with a LEE crimping die on a separate RCBS RockChucker press. Note you cannot use the turning handle as Gavin says to change the turrets if they are full of dies, you need a deep socket and handle because the dies are in the way.
Maybe you might know this, why use a turret press instead of a progressive press? I own and use several progressive and single stage presses, but I’ve never given much thought to a turret press. There seems to be a big comeback, I’m honestly asking, what am I missing?
@@RobinP556 Its just a little quicker and handier "single stage" loading. Leaving a caliber or two in a turret and swapping is appealing to some.
I like this all dies mounted and useable approach.
@ Richard K How much flex to you find in the turret when sizing seating? Hard to see with all that mount flex in Gavins video.
@@cw2a there is a tiny bit of play in the head, but its made that it stops exactly the same every time. very accurate ammo can be made with it. have no worries. i hate the priming system of this press, but it makes very accurate ammo.
I had to decide between this and the Lyman American 8 about 2 years ago . Found a fantastic price on the Lyman . I have used RCBS for about 30 years and am thrilled with the customer service . Well something went wrong with the Lyman >
I learned RCBS treats me better . I think the priming location on the RCBS better like the 8 stations on the Lyman . Wish I had the RCBS for a comparison I put a Brass Smith powder drop on the American 8 still have the RCBS on the bench for the rock chucker .
This is the thing right here, using RCBS, you get a solid customer experience that seems to pass from generation to generation. I imagine its similar with Hornady as well, the Lyman looks sexy thought but at the moment, I've gone green in my loading (for the environment /s) :P
Mine has a lot of up and down slop in the turret. Been that way from day one.
@chris c Any way to bush the turret? Or take up slack with fender washers?
I have a video on my channel what I did to my Lyman8. Super solid now. Unsure if its applicable here. Maybe it will help you!
Very thin shim with hole to capture ball bearing in rear support
Still trying to decide which way to go. I like the Forester and RCBS Summit single stage also. Have not reloaded in more than 20 years and that was on someone else’s press so now I get to decide what I want. Because I have some Autism traits I need to be able to set up a repeatable system so I don’t lose track of where I am and, it needs to be clumsy proof. That seems to lead towards a turret press since I am not looking at progressive press’s now. Recent subscriber
I do use one for everything I don't use the Dillon 750XL for.
It's a fine press but it does have it's quirks. The Spacing on the turret head can so tight that you can't lock the dies in place with the set screw because you can't access it. Also the whole priming assembly can be quite sketchy.
I use a deep well socket on a swivel drive handle to work the turret bolt. Never saw the logic in using the supplied RCBS tool. Can’t access the bolt at all when the head is filled with dies.
Great review. Now you've wet my whistle. Gavin, I purchased a new RCBS Rock Chucker Kit back when the press had a long plastic bicycle handle lever (yr. unknown) at the Oroville, California store. It’s been in storage in the OEM boxes just after I reloaded 20, 38 special reloads, 20, 44 magnum reloads. My question is can I add a Turret to the top of my press and what other parts are needed to complete the installation if possible?
I’m thinking of eventually getting everything needed to reload 223, .308, 30.06 and 500 S&W. Thanks
Any more turret presses, you might as well do a shootout video of them.
With a barret 50 cal at 300 yards 😆
That’s one amazing press. I might have to get one. Great video
I like it, might invest for my pistol reloads
It looks good, I havent seen one and didnt even know it was out. I sold my Lee classic cast turret (I found there was too much play in the aluminum turret wheel) and bought the Lyman American 8 turret when it came out after comparing it to the Redding Turret. While this RCBS looks good it doesnt seem ( at least from the vid) as robust as the Lyman or Redding and at the price I saw online line of over $300 - close to $350 I'd have to see it in person to see if I think its a good deal. It seems a step down from the Lyman or Redding imo
I have the turret 8 just got it and for the money its the way to go if your press is going to stay in one spot. If you need a press on the go on a portable stand the RCBS turret press is smaller and lighter lol it's nice to have options 😁
Hello Reloader,
You saw my video on what I did to my Lyman.
I have had a eye on this RCBS not as impressed seeing Gavin use it. Im really liking the Lyman now. Super solid and positive.
@@cw2a I think you should send a link to your vid and send it to Lyman and ask if its normal or defective - they might offer you a new press even if you did fix yours. I've checked mine several times after your vid seeing if there is any play at all and my press just doesnt have any play at all at the wheel -
Would love to see some close-up footage of the press working rather than a lot of distance shots
Great video and great information
I have the Lyman all American 8, the priming set up on that press is a disaster. It gets in the way and locks up regularly. I ditched it for a bench primer from rcbs
This rcbs priming set up looks very similar but with it off to the side it leaves full access to the ram and shell, way better executed.
Did you at least try to work on the priming system to get the bugs out
@@rhodes6858 yep, but the issues kept happening. Damaged primers,Iocked up press because spent primers kept getting stuck inbetween the exit hole on the ram and the body, not to mention the fact that it was always in the way too. I do all my decaping on a Lee app, and bench prime everything now, even with my Dillon. I haven't had a single damage/flipped primer since changing to that set-up.
This need to be more detailed with measuring consistency of bump and seating depth etc
Same, I wonder about the turret getting play after a while and it flexing a bit while sizing cases. That would be the key part of the process I think. Would be nice to have a de-capping die and a mandrel die setup and ready to use. Then 2 sets of rifle dies. Don't care about the priming setup.
Hey Gavin I really enjoy the videos. You and your guest have taught me a lot. I was wondering with a powder drop on a turret press. How much does it affect the amount of powder that is dropped with it constantly moving?
Saw no one replied to this question. The most important way to answer this is check powder weights after doing a cycle. Powder charge can vary if you just cycle just the powder station. This is a good rule of thumb on any press, especially progressive, but turret would be the same thought process. When I am loading rifle cases on a stand alone powder measured like my RCBS uniflow measured, I work the handle with the same motion each time, consistent, always work it in a consistent manner. Hope this may help.
I bought the Lyman turret press and it’s good but the primer system sucks, would have bought the RCBS but 6 station is not enough. Will get the RCBS primer setup and eliminate the Lyman setup. Happy with the press .
What a lot of flex with inline fabrications stand I’m not 100% sure if it was the stand of the bench but boy you made loading 223 look really hard work
I wonder if the turret affects accuracy over a fixed single stage press?
I just bought an old ponsness and Warren hydromatic pw600. Super cool old shotgun press. You should try and dig up some really retro presses and tools to show how far this industry has come but also stayed the same
I ditched the priming tool for a hand primer. I found the cup gets jammed too much inside the shell holders and it didn't feel very smooth or efficient for me. Personal preference.
I use mine for 300 blackout and 223, and my only other complaint really is that the hole under the turret isn't big enough for some of the dies to go through, including any dies with depriming pins sticking out and any precision dies like forester micrometer dies. I found using a single stage press was better for my precision cartridges just because I didn't have to go through the hassle of screwing out the dies any time I wanted to use certain stations, but this press is good for bulk work
Mine sucks. Spent primers constantly get into the ram and jam it up. The primer system didn’t seat primers well. I ended up getting a bench primer and a separate press just to work around that.
Press works well. But the primer slide is sticky. Had to buff the primer tray slide channel quite a bit to make it smooth out. Still not the best or smoothest way to prime. Ended up going to off press priming using RCBS Auto prime #9460.
@@oscarbear7498 Not necessarily. It has a similar primer slide. I like my turret press. The Rebel was not out yet but it would not have mattered. I wanted a multi station turret. That's why I got this turret (and it was priced great at the time). Also, the auto prime works well. I'm now sold on off press priming from now on. If I ever decide to buy a progressive in the future, I may change my mind. Who knows?????
Watching close to see deflection sizing. That mount flex would ruin it for me!!! I thought those mounts was more solid then that!!!
Looks like a little deflection seating bullets...
Hey Gavin, good video. I don’t want to spend $1200+ on the Area 419 turret press but I do want the set it and forget it you get from a turret, you’ve done reviews on both RCBS and Redding T7, which did get the most precise ammo from? I currently still use my Rock Chucker Supreme and it does great but would like to set up a more user friendly turret press. Thanks for all your videos, learned a lot.
In your opinion what press is the best for the new reloadins
Super. May have to get one !
Never used a low end turret press that was consistent in both shoulder bumping and bullet seating. If they have tight tolerances they still flex.
Great loading for hunting but not so much for match.
My turret presses are only used for decapping and neck mandrels now none of which requires precision.
What press do you use for loading?
@@DAMMDAUGHTERS Single stage rock chucked or a rebel for long cartridges sizing and seating, I get far better consistency/accuracy.
@@rvrski1 that makes sense, im loading a 300 wby coal 3.7". The press I'm using is an older rcbs single stage. Does the rcbs rebel have more room? The one I'm using currently is a buddy's, I think it's the same dimensions of the rock chucker just not cast iron.
@@DAMMDAUGHTERS The Rebel is cast iron, just heavier build with a wider base and a taller opening, from memory it’s 20% heavier construction than the Rock Chucker from memory.
I have Turrets, just don’t use them for precision or consistency.
Well thanks, I want something taller because it's annoying loading a cartridge as long as the 300 wby in the press I'm using now.
I love mine
Currently Loading 10mm 45acp and 7 62× 54 on it
I have an RCBS Turret press… I use it for rifle and it works great. My only complaint is that I think the priming system on it is absolutely awful… I don’t like priming on the press anyway, but I think the priming system on the lee turret press is superior.
⭐️GAVIN ✨May I ask, do you believe this would create as concentric ammo as a single stage press?
Thanks kindly for your feedback
I always wanted a turret press then I heard about the issues with adding a powder measure on a turret. I have heard it's not good to add a measure to a turret. I ended up just getting another single stage Rebel. Some day I'll get a Pro-Chucker 7.
Turret shootout when?
Should be a lot more manageable in scope than the single stage and progressive shootouts:
Lee Classic, Lyman AA8, RCBS Turret (reviewed here), Redding T-7; …?
This video really makes me want one 😅
I know you’re demonstrating the press but why prime dummy rounds?
This was the press wanted in the first, but couldn't find any stock when I was looking so I had to settle for a Lee turret.
Is there any turret press that runs the hornady lock n load bushings
Does this mean we finally get a progressive and turret press shootout?
yesss please!!!!!
That is literally a Lyman All American press with the primer seater on the side.
I like the look of that. Lyman is front and center. RIGHT IN THE WAY! 😜. This looks MUCH lighter built then Lyman!
And lighter
Can the Hornady Lock N Load be used on that?...actually...what RCBS single stage presses allow the use of Lock N Load. Thank you
Hey Gavin- noticed you have a track system on your bench- how are you afixing the stand to that? I was originally thinking inserts into the top of my bench but I wasn't sure that would be "beefy" enough. A pic would be great! Thanks!
I have used a turret press my entire life. So I like the idea. Enjoyed seeing the RCBS. Mine is a Hollywood reloading press that I love. It’s a little more sold then the RCBS. It also can load 50 caliber. Have you seen a Hollywood?
" A little more solid than the RCBS "....LOLOLOL!!! It's like comparing my F-150 to a a D-11 Caterpillar! You are very modest. I have "press envy" now!😄
Gavin, it almost looked painful for you to do this review.. the new shop must be kicking your butt. Worn a little thin? Iv never mist a video of yours and I love your content
I want to buy one. But ,can hornady locknload bushings be installed?
If not. Does any turret press allow?
Great to have especially if the Indians are at the door and you need your quickest reloads to be available for loading and defense…..
So I use a single stage press so on this you sized and deprime and prime what about case length after sizing?
does it use the same footprint inline fabrication stand as a rock chucker?
Yes it does.
Redding T7 for the win.
For me, the verdict is still out on the RCBS Turrer press. I can't help but comepare it to my Redding T7 and my 3 and 4 hole Lees. I prefer the large Allen head turret bolt on the T7. I leave a long T handle in it all the time. It's never in the way. If all the holes are filled on the RCBS, it requires a socket w/extension. Another thing, decapping pins will run into the press frame on the RCBS, preventing complete rotation of the turret. The rest is just details. I'll spare you.
Ok. I've been watching you for a while, and have a question. Would this be a good starter press to get my feet wet in reloading?
Yes. A turret is by far the best option for a single press. The best compromise for speed and simplicity. If you can spare a little more budget, the Redding T7 is a more “lifetime” piece of equipment, but RCBS makes good stuff as well
It looks like it's just a cheaper version of the T-7, that being said I do like the primer on this model vs the T-7. As I'm asked about presses from time to time, my question to you is would you recommend this press over the T-7 if money wasn't a factor? And also with the available upgrades on the T-7 from Creedmoor Sports?
The T7 is a much more solid and proven press. There are records of T7s after loading 1,000,000 rounds and still being within manufacturer spec for brand new machines. As far as the creedmoor parts, there is nothing for me that is a real upgrade. I prefer not to have a threaded handle, so it can be moved. The plastic shims reduce sizing repeatability. And I mark my turret head with a Position 1 so dies go back in the same hole every time. The head doesn’t change dimension, magically. The only benefit would be corrosion resistance, but Imperial wax takes care of that too.
Wish I had the money to get a turret press from Rcbs 😢
Hello man! I just saw where Reloader762 said what the cost was!! Ouch!!
Reading instructions? What's that?
Deflection? Man when I come to you for where things land I like the nuts and bolts not just the how to use it! Anyone can read the manual. how much deflection do you get compared to Redding, or zero?
Am I the only one that cleans primer pockets
Looks like the de-capping pin the way it was adjusted might hit if you swung the turret all the way around? Did it have to be adjusted that long because of the stroke travel to de-prime?
I can confirm that the decapping pin will hit the frame. I have this press and I love it but I have accidentally broken 2 decapping pins this way. You really don’t need to turn it that far but yes it will hit if you try to turn the turret all the way around
Anyone have any tips on someone dipping their toes into this? Im obsessed with 357, have a lever gun in it, planning to get a couple revolvers in it, and on top of that probably end up loading some 30-30/45-70. But, after all of this, im stuck between which type of press. Really the more I could shoot the better, but is it worth to just get straight into a progressive? Or should I take the time to learn things on a single stage/turret? I know most of what I find online comes down to "What I need", but thats kinda the problem. Do I expect to shoot 3000 rounds in a week? Not really, but having to take all day to load a nice little cache of rounds might not be preferable either. Without counting in money, which do you guys think is more useful? Single stage? Or straight to progressive?
I would recommend a Lee Classic four hole turret press. Good on-press priming and it works great with the Lee Auto Drum powder measure. You can disable the auto indexing, which I add best for a beginner or someone that likes total control. Priced right too! I’ve loaded thousands of 357/38 on it.
Would this be a good press for a first press so you can load higher volume 9mm/223-5.56/45acp? And still load 44mag/357mag-38spl/ and rifles like 35rem? Or is the Redding, Lyman or other presses better?
Go redding t8 or better (zero press) and if you want high volume go dillion 750 or hornady ap or the mark 7 apex 10.. skip the bs and go straight for the good stuff. Trust me, I got almost as many presses as gavin does. Lol..
@@luckyshotammunitiongunsllc2369 I don't think Id ever save money that way but thanks for the advice! The Dillon 550 is a little pricey not sure what else the 750 has but I think that's one step away from running it's self. (which would be nice but Ill probably not shoot that much) Maybe single stage and I'll just have to grin and bear it?
Its pricy indeed, but u get what you pay for. i like the hornady lock and load classic, I enjoyed the redding t7, my lyman All American 8 is now my brothers (its shit). I love my zero press And all the progressive presses though expensive will save you alot of time. The only ones looking at in my opinion are hornady ap dillion 750 and apex 10. Enjoy brother and happy hunting
@@luckyshotammunitiongunsllc2369 Thanks! You too!
There are two types of reloader. Those who have a Dillion and those that will.
I just picked one of these up for my first foray into reloading 6.5CM. I noticed mine has a decent gap between the turret and the support arm in the rear which allows the turret to deflect like 3 to 5 degrees when the ram is all the way up during resizing. Is there a way to remove that slop?
I hope cause coming new with that kind of a defect is unacceptable period
Here’s what I don’t get, why buy a turret press over a progressive press? I’m not slamming turret presses, in almost 40 years of reloading I’ve never used one, but I do own and use several progressive presses. What am I missing?
Simplicity. I have a Dillon 550 and a Redding T7, and there are quite often times where I just want to try something different with a load, or make a few rounds, etc. and it’s just less hassle on the turret press. As soon as the volume cranks up, I’m on the Dillon. Precision is just as good and it’s fast. But changing over the primer system, messing with charge weights, tuning seating depth, etc. just takes longer to adjust on the Dillon. The Dillon was my first press, and I believe the 550 is the best single machine for someone loading volume of both rifle and pistol, but if space and budget allows, add a turret to your bench.
@@christopherfreeman3095 Good point. I have my Dillions setup for one load and caliber and never change them.
This is off topic but when is the progressive press shootout video coming out??? It seems like I remember a video several months ago saying yall finally got the last press yall was waiting on to do the video...
I’ll keep my Redding T7… I grew up loading on RCBS equipment with my dad, but I can’t support them anymore, as so much of their stuff is made China now… that said, I’ll keep all my American made RCBS stuff that I’ve had for years, but I won’t be buy anything else from them…
I check to see where stuff is made now. I bought a Rebel press a couple of years ago for long cartridges and it was made in the US.
@@rvrski1 you sure? I thought the casting was done in China?
@@The2ndProtectsTheRest 2 years ago they were made in the US, still have the box with “Made in the USA” on it.
@@rvrski1 that’s good, I’m curious to know what they have done in China and what’s still here
@@The2ndProtectsTheRest Be great if they labelled it on their website (all manufactures) but I expect that’s not in their commercial interests.
I’m with you, I don’t buy Chinese at all.
small pistol primers? anyone?
Bought 10k a few years ago from Midway. All set for a few more years.
@@scottperson9487I stocked up on everything thing but small pistol.
I’m loading 9mm with small pistol magnum. Cci 550’s. Seems like no prob. I would gladly buy a couple of bricks of regulars though. I have lifetime supply of everything else. Just didn’t start shooting 9mm until it was already a problem to get them. Was always a 45 acp and 357 magnum guy before. At least as far as handguns go.
@@basketofdeplorables4253 Most likely you and I can say through experience that we lived through enough ammo shortages to know that when the shelves are full and prices are good is the time to stock up. I have plenty of everything including factory ammo to last a very long time too. You are correct on using Magnum for non-Magnum loads.
Dummy round with no powder and live primer? My dummy rounds never have a primer.
My experience with this press was very poor. Ram wasn’t even machined properly to accept a shell holder. I wouldn’t recommend this press to anyone. There are far better options available.
Turret press shootout now?
👍🎵☀️🎶💡
Area419 Zero killer.
Could not agree more.. a bit pricey but when you add up all the other presses I purchase to get the results I'm getting with the zero press i could have purchase 2 zeros instead
Plus the consistency with all my interchangeable turrets. Everything eles is sub par indeed
@@luckyshotammunitiongunsllc2369 What is the zero like for consistency when sizing as that’s my complaint with the low end manufactures.
I might be mistaken but, you said you reprimed the dummies you where reloading? Be careful with that!
I'm just not a fan of any priming system that stacks the primers on top of each other and so needs an "explosion shield." For rifle loads I much prefer priming with my Lee Bench Primer. The triangle tray design, as with many of their designs, requires some learning and patience and fiddling, but it really works and is a much safer way to go in my opinion.
The press had a blast shield lol pay attention good sir
@@woodypilgrim242 Ah yes. I was too lazy to replay and get the exact nomenclature. Blast/Explosion. Same idea.
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Better to invest in a rare commodity like primers, hard to find and the price is headed north quickly!
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You should buy some presses with that crypto